It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of the unexpected passing of Sycamore football student-athlete Edward Amankwah. He was 22 years old.
“We’re heartbroken over Edward’s passing, and our hearts go out to the Amankwah family and all of his loved ones,” said Head Coach Curt Mallory. “He was a quality young man who brought light into every room and left a lasting impact on his teammates, our coaching staff, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.”
It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of the unexpected passing of Sycamore football student-athlete Edward Amankwah. He was 22 years old.
“We’re heartbroken over Edward’s passing, and our hearts go out to the Amankwah family and all of his loved ones,” said Head Coach Curt Mallory. “He was a quality young man who brought light into every room and left a lasting impact on his teammates, our coaching staff, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.”
“Edward embodied the spirit of our university—resilient, kind, and full of promise,” said President Mike Godard. “His sudden passing leaves a void in our Sycamore Family, and our hearts are heavy for all who knew and loved him. At Indiana State, our culture of care means standing together in grief, supporting one another, and honoring the life and legacy of those we’ve lost.”
Edward, a redshirt senior defensive back from Tinley Park, Illinois, was pursuing his graduate degree at Indiana State after earning his bachelor’s degree in athletic training. He was preparing to enter his final season with the Sycamore football team and was widely admired for his leadership, kindness, and positive spirit—both on and off the field.
While Edward was an active member of the football program, the circumstances of his passing were unrelated to any athletic activities. Out of respect for his family’s privacy, no further details will be provided. We ask our campus community to extend compassion and support to those mourning this loss.
“Our Sycamore Family is devastated by the loss of Edward Amankwah,” said Athletic Director Nathan Christensen. “He was more than a student-athlete—he was a friend, a leader, and a deeply valued member of our community. Edward carried himself with humility and heart, and we are better as a department because he was part of it.”
We understand that loss affects each of us differently, and we encourage members of our community to care for themselves and one another. Counseling and grief support are available to all students, faculty, and staff through the Student Counseling Center, which can be reached at 812-237-3939.